Indo-Pacific: Mauritius to Samoa, north to Ryukyu Islands, south to New Caledonia.

Biology
Glossary
(e.g. epibenthic)

Found over hard, open bottoms at the bases of reefs and over sand and rubble patches (Ref. 1602); also observed in deep coastal to outer reef drops-offs subject to strong currents (Ref. 48637). Often in pairs (Ref. 1602). Monogamous (Ref. 52884). Feeds on zooplankton, especially copepods and crustacean larvae. Darts into a hole when alarmed (Ref. 1602). Minimum depth reported from Ref. 27115.